I recently had a conversation with a long time RTS fan who made the remark that Stormgate will live and die by the pro scene adoption, and that if the game isn’t a spectacle at the highest level, they’re in trouble. The example he somewhat jokingly gave was that if TLO can make it through a premier tournament, there are problems (lol).
While I don’t fully agree, it did raise an interesting point in the “spectacular” nature of what professional RTS can be. Many times while watching professional SC2 I have been in awe at the sheer speed and control at which some players are able to execute. It’s a beautiful dance at speeds I cannot comprehend.
On the flip side, I’ve personally found that I am quite simply not fast enough to play SC2 at the level my brain wants too. There can be a lot going on, and attempting to keep up can be a frustrating experience at times. In general, I prefer watching SC2 to playing it.
Coming back to Stormgate, I’m all for a more approachable game that doesn’t require the same level of (sometimes inhuman) speed and precision. I want a game that’s fun, approachable, while still offering enough room to challenge myself.
I’d love to have it both ways. A game that inspires awe when played at the highest level, while still being approachable and fun. I’m not sure it’s possible, but I’m hoping the game can strike a middle ground between the two.
I know Artosis and Tasteless have said that SC2 is more approachable than SC1 and they like it less for that reason. I think there is a big range here. But so long as the game is a good spectator sport, I think that is important, regardless of its approachable for players or not. You can be in awe of someone doing micro, macro, strategy, there are a lot of ways for a good RTS player to make their mark, the genre is flexible.